Women, children and staff at refuge recently enjoyed a restorative wellbeing day at Chatsworth House, combining creativity and nature to connect with one another in a beautiful setting.
The day began in the Old Potting Shed, where participants were welcomed with refreshments before getting creative with watercolours. Using paints to create colourful backgrounds on card, everyone had the opportunity to slow down, focus on the present moment and express themselves through art.
Then a gentle wellbeing walk through the Chatsworth grounds and gardens. There was plenty of time to enjoy the fresh air, take in the scenery and gather natural materials along the way. What initially looked like a rainy day did little to dampen spirits, with everyone embracing the experience and making the most of being outdoors together.
After lunch, the group took part in a cyanotype workshop, learning a fascinating cameraless photographic printing technique that uses sunlight and light-sensitive materials to create striking blue images. Using foliage collected during the walk, participants designed and produced their own unique bookmarks to take home as a reminder of the day.
Everyone who attended were overwhelmingly positive, sharing how relaxed and calm they felt by the end of the day, highlighting the value of taking time away from everyday pressures to reconnect with nature, creativity and themselves.
Opportunities like these play an important role in supporting wellbeing and recovery, providing safe places where women can build confidence, reduce stress and enjoy positive experiences together.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in making the day such a special one. Despite the weather forecast, it turned out to be a truly memorable experience, filled with creativity, laughter and moments of peace in one of Derbyshire’s most beautiful locations. 💚🌿
Sometimes the simplest moments in nature can have the biggest impact on our wellbeing. 💚
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